Weimer Calls for Political Distance from AfD and Leftist Party

Kulturstaatsminister Wolfram Weimer has expressed his concern regarding the influence of both the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the Left Party in German politics, advocating for their exclusion from decision-making powers within the government. He emphasized the importance of utilizing all democratic means available to ensure that these parties remain outside the political center of the country.

In comments made to the Funke Mediengruppe, Weimer characterized both parties as detrimental to Germany's future, asserting that the Left Party is not merely a left-leaning faction but rather the direct successor of the Socialist Unity Party (SED), notorious for its oppressive regime in East Germany. He noted that while the Left Party and AfD represent different ideologies, they both aim for a fundamentally altered vision of the Republic.

Weimer argued that parliamentary decisions should be made without reliance on the votes of either the AfD or the Left Party, suggesting that their perspectives are misaligned with the mainstream political framework.

On the subject of the AfD's recent campaign activities, Weimer criticized their stance against the Bauhaus architectural movement, which he claimed aligns with historical narratives reminiscent of the National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP). He stated that the AfD's rhetoric reflects a disturbing authoritarianism that should be made clear to the public.

Despite his criticisms, Weimer does not support a ban on the AfD, arguing that such measures would be ineffective and could lead to the party rebranding under a different name. Instead, he advocates for an active political campaign against the party through compelling policy-making that resonates with the electorate.

Additionally, Weimer addressed the ongoing debate surrounding gendered language in public institutions. He reassured that organizations receiving public funding, including museums and broadcasting services, need not fear repercussions for using gendered terms. However, he suggested that these institutions should consider adopting conventional language practices to better connect with the majority of the population, which he claims is opposed to gendered language forms.

Weimer noted that his guidance on avoiding gendered language is merely a recommendation and not an enforceable directive. He expressed that failure to adhere to this advice could lead to a disconnect between these institutions and their audiences.